Former members of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC), recently dissolved by the Edo State government, have filed a lawsuit against Governor Okpebholo.
The legal battle is being heard at the National Industrial Court in Benin City, Edo State, Vanguard reports.
The claimants, including retired Justice James Oyomire, Mrs. Gladys Idahor, and four others, argue that their dissolution before the end of their tenure is unconstitutional.
According to the lawsuit, the members, inaugurated on March 23, 2022, are guaranteed a five-year term by the Nigerian Constitution and state electoral laws, which should end in March 2027.
The officials are challenging the December 27, 2024, government announcement that dissolved the commission.
They claimed the decision violates provisions that only permit removal on grounds such as misconduct or incapacity, neither of which applies to them.
The former members are seeking several remedies from the court, including a declaration that their removal is illegal, an order nullifying the dissolution, and compensation totaling N619 million.
This amount covers unpaid emoluments, damages for the alleged unlawful action, and legal fees.
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